Assisted dying backers could use archaic procedure to bypass ‘undemocratic’ block by peers

Supporters of the assisted dying bill, led by MP Kim Leadbeater and Lord Charles Falconer, are considering invoking the Parliament Act to bypass opposition in the House of Lords. This move comes as the bill faces delays in the Lords, threatening its passage before the end of the parliamentary session in May. The Parliament Act, rarely used, allows the House of Commons to force legislation through if the Lords repeatedly block it. Backers argue this is necessary to ensure a parliamentary decision on the issue, while opponents claim the delays are due to proper scrutiny of the bill. Falconer hopes the Lords will allow a vote, but is prepared to use the Act if necessary to ensure the bill's progression.

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